Imua Family Services Announces Imua Autism Services

Imua Family Services on Maui announced the launch of a new program, Imua Autism Services.

Organization director Dean Wong says the program was created in direct response to the increasing numbers of individuals diagnosed with Autsim Spectrum Disorder.

Wong said that after years of struggle and only partial assistance available to parents, this year marks the beginning of more resources and much needed help.

Under the program, pediatric-age children will continue to receive Applied Behavioral Analysis services with specialized assessment, individualized instruction and family training.

File photo.

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On January 1st, Hawaii became the 42nd state to require certain health insurance plans cover treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders under “Luke’s Law,” named after a Big Island boy with ASD whose family’s drawn-out struggles to afford suitable health care made him a symbol for the autism community in Hawaiʻi.

“It is our philosophy that all children with ASD can learn and grow, improving the current and future quality of their lives. It is our intent to provide the scope of services that will result in children with ASD achieving their full potential and highest well-being,” organization representatives said.

According to IFS, children and adults with ASD often have problems with social, emotional and communication skills. They may avoid eye contact, prefer to be alone, not look at an object when another person points to it, have difficulty relating to and socializing with others, repeat actions over and over, have trouble adapting to a change in routine, or lose skills they once had, according to information compiled by IFS.

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Currently, Imua Family Services is a credentialed provider by Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc. and is accepting both Kaiser Members and Kaiser Quest pediatric clients. Its introduction increases Imua’s breadth of specialized programs and services it offers to the Maui County community.

For more information, contact the Imua Autism Services business administrator at (808) 244‐7467 x210 or email llevan@imuafamilyservices.org.